Howard Park Flint Rock Shiraz 2023

Pretty notes of blue fruits intermingled with sun-dried tomato skin, fresh violets, a little salt dust, cocoa powder, and lifted crushed granite. It’s pretty and lifted, but the real joy is the follow-through on the palate. Silken and taut, an unbroken line of calligraphy from nose to finish, tip to tail. Elegant and fresh. Great persistence, and while there is succulence, fruit sweetness and an inviting juiciness here, it’s the savoury ironstone underscore and the mirage-like acidity that takes this to the next level. Australia is in the process of redefining the country’s Shiraz identity, largely through South Australian Shiraz. Yet one need only look towards these lighter-framed Great Southern iterations to see an effortless drinkability, freshness and clarity. Every single vintage, this wine stops me in my tracks. It’s one of the best value and most delicious West Aussie red wines. Buy a case.